PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- Former New Orleans Saints football
player Michael Lewis will be featured as the guest speaker for the 21st
annual Jackson County Boys and Girls Club Steak and Steak Dinner on July 11 at the Jackson County Civic Center.

Lewis, a real-life Cinderella, worked as a commercial beer truck
driver up until he was signed by the New Orleans Saints in 2001, thus receiving
the nickname "Beer Man."

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New Orleans' Michael Lewis crosses the goal after running a kick off back 96 yards for a touchdown Sunday December 26, 2004 against the Falcons.(Mobile Register, Chip English)

While with the Saints, he set an NFL record for combined kick-punt
return yardage, which still stands today. He also has a standing record as the
Saints' all-time career leader in punt returns and punt return yardage.

In
2002, Lewis was selected to the NFL Pro Bowl and NFC Special Teams Player of
the Week. Lewis was even awarded a Super Bowl ring in recognition of his
contributions to the Saints off the field.

He is now a "Team Ambassador" for the Saints along with
being the founder of the Striding for Your Dreams Foundation.

"His story is an inspiration," said Alan Sudduth, chairman for the
Steak and Steak Dinner. "He had a goal and a dream and he was prepared and
determined. He made the most of it. This is a great story to share with
children who are at an impressionable age."

The theme for this year's silent auction and dinner is "Be
Prepared, Be Determined and Achieve Your Dreams."

"I'm very honored to be selected to represent the team that
puts this together," Sudduth said. "Especially the impact the Boys and Girls
Club has on the youth in the community."

The silent auction will begin at 6 p.m and the dinner will
begin at 7 p.m. The major auction package includes two tickets and hospitality
to the Saints vs. 49ers football game, transportation and a hotel stay at the
IP Casino.